Accessible by Default: An Inclusive Teaching Discussion

Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

Author

Kieran Mackle
August 18, 2025

Accessible by Default: An Inclusive Teaching Discussion

Good Morning!

This week on Thinking Deeply About Primary Education, Chris Such and I are joined by Peps McCrea and Dr. Jen Barker to discuss their new discussion paper, co-authored with Josh Goodrich, which establishes the case for making classroom teaching inclusive by default.

We explore the bottlenecks in the current system that leave too many students dependent on downstream fixes, the importance of clarity in teacher talk and presentation, and why generic labels and interventions often miss the mark. Drawing on examples from early maths learning trajectories, reading difficulties, and everyday classroom practice, the conversation highlights how small changes in exposition, slides, and whiteboard use can have a transformative impact on students with additional needs.

It’s a chance to hear from leading thinkers about how schools can move beyond sticking-plaster solutions and focus instead on core instruction that works for every student, every day.

And as always, this week’s recommended reading section brings together the books, papers, and resources mentioned in the episode, so you can take the conversation further in your own professional learning.

Accessible by Default: An Inclusive Teaching Discussion by Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

Episode 241: This week on #TDaPE, Kieran and Chris speak with Peps Mccrea and Jen Barker about their new discussion paper with Josh Goodrich, exploring how to make classroom teaching accessible by default.

creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/kieran-mackle/episodes/Accessible-by-Default-An-Inclusive-Teaching-Discussion-e36tc3f/a-ac3sclj

Visual Summary

Accessible By Default - Evidence Snacks, Peps Mccrea

The last few tickets are on sale for the Thinking Deeply about Primary Education Conference in Cardiff. Join us for a day of professional learning in aid of a great cause. September 27th, 2025 - 8:30am to 2:30pm. Click on the image to get your tickets!

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Huge thank you to everyone who shared the post last week. Over the summer break, more and more teachers and educators have been thinking deeply about their craft and your support is hugely appreciated.

That’s all for this week. Let us know if you enjoyed any of the recommendations or have any questions via the comments section wherever you listen or by replying to this email.

Until next time, thanks for listening.